
Shirley Li
Staff writer at The Atlantic, specializing in culture and known for her writing on Taylor Swift.
Top 5 podcasts with Shirley Li
Ranked by the Snipd community

Oct 6, 2025 • 18min
If American films are meh...are China’s better?
Shirley Li, a culture staff writer for The Atlantic, dives into the shifting landscape of global cinema. She discusses how Hollywood struggles post-2020 while China's vibrant film industry thrives, notably with the blockbuster 'Ne Zha 2'. Shirley reveals changing audience appetites, the impact of streaming, and how franchises from other cultures are rising to challenge Hollywood. With insights on why American films may resonate less internationally, she explores what tools Hollywood might use to adapt to this new competition.

Dec 3, 2024 • 57min
Why Critics Are Now in Charge of Awards Buzz with Shirley Li, Plus John Magaro on the Long Career That Led to September 5
Shirley Li, a staff writer for The Atlantic, brings her expertise in analyzing the film awards race, explaining how critical buzz can make or break nominees. She shares insights on the evolving landscape of awards season, mentioning groups like the New York and LA Film Critics Associations. Actor John Magaro discusses his extensive career in indie films, highlighting his role in the thriller *September 5*, and explores the dynamics of collaboration and the challenges of Hollywood fame. The conversation blends humor with a candid look at the industry's realities.

May 25, 2022 • 42min
Top Gun
Join Shirley, Megan, and David as they analyze the themes, masculinity, and propaganda of the classic movie 'Top Gun'. Dive into the soundtrack influence, American hero redefinition, and compare the original with the upcoming Maverick. Explore the relevance of 'Top Gun' today and enjoy playful banter about call signs before 'The Review' podcast takes a break.

Dec 28, 2021 • 29min
Taylor’s version
Shirley Li, a culture-focused staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into Taylor Swift's bold move to re-record her first six albums. She explains how this strategy reclaims artistic ownership and sparks a significant shift in the music industry. The discussion also explores Swift's complexities with fame, her iconic moments, and her public battles, notably with Scooter Braun. Additionally, Li sheds light on how Swift’s evolved interpretations, like her rendition of 'Love Story,' balance nostalgia with personal growth, influencing both fan loyalty and industry dynamics.

Apr 9, 2021 • 28min
Taylor Swift rewrites her story
Shirley Li, a staff writer at The Atlantic specializing in culture, dives deep into Taylor Swift's bold move to re-record her first six albums. They discuss how this gambit allows Swift to reclaim her narrative and ownership in an industry often defined by artist exploitation. The conversation highlights Swift's complex relationship with fame, especially following her public feud with Kanye West. Li also touches on the nostalgia factor of these re-recordings and their impact on fan connections, showcasing Swift's dual role as storyteller and savvy businesswoman.